Social Networks in the Workplace in Postreform Urban China

Abstract

Drawing upon organizational foci theory and market transition theory, this study examined social networks in the workplace in postreform urban China. Specifically, this study assessed the association between employment sector and employees’ social ties with coworkers and its differentials association by regions with varying levels of market economy development. Data from the Chinese General Social Survey 2003 were analyzed using negative binomial regressions. Results showed that state/collective sector workers reported more coworker ties than private sector workers, which was more prominent in less marketized regions. Moreover, sectoral differences in coworker ties were partially explained by highly constraining organizational foci embedded in the danwei system. These findings highlight the role market transition plays in restructuring social space and relations in urban China.